Today is World Suicide Prevention Day

I really don’t feel like writing today, so here’s something I copied from Lifeline:

3 Steps You Can Take to Help Prevent Suicide

1) Ask
The biggest misconception about suicide is that you shouldn’t talk about it. In fact the reverse is true. Asking someone directly “Are you thinking about suicide?” will actually decrease their risk because it shows you care.

Don’t be afraid to do this, but make sure you ask directly and clearly.

2) Listen and stay with them
If they say ‘yes’, they are suicidal, listen to them and allow them to express how they are feeling. Don’t leave them alone. Stay with them or get someone else reliable to stay with them.

3) Get help
Get them to appropriate help. Call a crisis line like Lifeline 13 11 14 or 000 if life is in danger. If you can, get in straight away and visit a GP or psychologist. Even if the danger is not immediate they may need longer term support for the issues that led to them feeling this way.